Get help with your Apple Cinema Display

Learn about the steps you should follow if you have any issues with your display.

If you have a problem with your display and nothing in this article addresses it, consult the service and support information that came with your display for instructions on how to contact an Apple-authorized service provider or Apple for assistance. If you attempt to repair the display yourself, any damage you may cause to the display will not be covered by the limited warranty on your display. Contact an Apple-authorized dealer or service provider for additional information about this or any other warranty question.

No image on the screen

Make sure the computer is turned on.

Make sure the power cord is plugged in properly.

Make sure the display cables are connected to your computer properly.

Make sure the DVI or Mini DisplayPort display cable is connected securely.

Make sure your computer is not in sleep mode.

Make sure the brightness is set properly. The brightness control is under the right front edge of the display.

Check for and install all available software updates. Software updates may provide solutions to many common issues.

If the display power cord is plugged into a grounded wall outlet or power strip, find out if power to the outlet has been interrupted. You can test the outlet by plugging in something that you know works, like a desk lamp or radio.

Can't adjust the volume on the display's built-in speakers

Make sure the display's USB cable is plugged into the computer.

Check for software updates. Software updates may be required to provide full functionality.

Blurry screen image

Change the resolution of the display in the Displays preferences. For best clarity, select the native resolution of the display. The native resolution is typically the maximum resolution listed in the preferences. Other resolutions may appear blurry because they are scaled to fit the monitor screen size.

No colors on the screen or the colors don't look right

Make sure the display cables are connected firmly to the correct ports on the computer.

Calibrate your monitor using the monitor's control panel. For more information on color and your display, see Mac Help.

Open the monitor's control panel and find out if your monitor is set to display grays. For more information on color and your display, see Mac Help.

Desktop icons move after screen resolution change

Changing the screen resolution affects the display of information on your screen, especially changing to a smaller resolution. The operating system may automatically reposition icons after you change the screen resolution.

Changes made in the Displays preferences don't appear on the display

Each display connected to your computer has its own Displays preferences. Use the preference pane that appears on the display you want to make changes on.

No onscreen display when you press the brightness button or no power mode options in the monitor's control panel

Make sure you connect the USB connector on the display cable to the USB port on your computer. Some of the features of the display's software require a USB connection.